Fall River Zoning Board of Appeals Tackles Historic Building’s Wireless Facility Plans
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Meeting Type:
Zoning Board
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Meeting Date:
04/18/2024
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Recording Published:
04/19/2024
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Duration:
201 Minutes
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Bristol County
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Towns:
Fall River
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting, the Fall River Zoning Board of Appeals addressed a series of proposals, with a notable focus on the petition by Celco Partnership DBA Verizon Wireless. The company sought a special permit to install a wireless telecommunications facility within the steeple of the Catholic Memorial Home on Highland Avenue. This initiative, aimed at enhancing coverage in the area, sparked debate due to the historical significance of the building. The North End Neighborhood Association opposed the project, raising concerns about the impact on the neighborhood’s character and suggesting alternative locations for the antennas.
The proposed installation was argued to be minimal and not noticeably impactful on the surrounding area. However, the coverage area became a point of contention, with the association contending that it would primarily benefit regions outside of Fall River. The conversation also turned to potential alternative measures, such as the utilization of frequency transparent glass to minimize visual disruption. Questions were raised regarding the necessity of the coverage and the chosen location. The applicant provided detailed information on coverage areas and the rationale behind selecting the Catholic Memorial Home.
Ventilation concerns emerged due to the confined space of the steeple, with the applicant explaining that cooling measures were necessary to manage the heat generated by the equipment. Public opinion was solicited, with arguments both in favor of and against the project, alongside requests for further clarifications.
Additional points of interest included discussions on various variance requests and special permits. One such case involved a request for variance relief to divide a property and convert a two-family dwelling into a four-family dwelling. The applicant cited the deteriorated state of the property and presented a plan that required variances for exceeding maximum units and waiving dimensional requirements.
Furthermore, the board deliberated on a variance application for a property on County Street. Adjustments were considered to ensure adherence to setback regulations.
Another variance application gained approval to divide a property and construct a single-family dwelling on the newly created lot, despite concerns raised by the public regarding recreational space and potential flooding. The board weighed the possibilities for maximizing the use of the divided property, considering access, parking, and yard areas.
A discussion ensued about a special permit application to divide a parcel into two lots, each with an existing single-family dwelling. The applicant’s intention to divide the property for potential sale was discussed, with the board carefully considering the standard practice of one house per lot in the city.
The meeting also addressed a variance request for constructing a single-family dwelling on a small, irregularly shaped lot. The board approved the variance after considering the unique circumstances of the parcel’s layout. There was a continuation of discussions surrounding a variance request from Rod Monoman LLC, with the board suggesting revisions to the plan and raising concerns about parking and street access.
The board discussed at length a special permit request for converting a pre-existing mixed-use commercial and residential building to five residential units. Concerns about parking compliance with zoning regulations dominated the conversation, with the board emphasizing the need for concrete evidence of parking availability. Public comments from the Preservation Society River and nearby property owners expressed opposition to the increased density and inadequate parking.
A variance request to change the use of a pre-existing non-conforming auto repair shop into auto sales was approved, with the applicant detailing a parking plan accounting for vehicle maneuverability. Another variance was granted to build a four-family dwelling in an R4 two-family zoning district, with the board considering the project’s provision of affordable housing and harmony with the neighborhood.
The board acted on a petition for variance relief for properties on Barlo Street and Pleasant Street, granting waivers for setbacks and lot coverage. Similarly, a special permit to convert the Oil’s restaurant into four residential apartment units was discussed, with the board approving the proposal conditionally.
A variance request to divide a parcel into two lots, one for a three-family dwelling townhouse and another for a single-family dwelling, was supported and approved by the board after reviewing the proposal’s impact on parking and the design of the proposed structures.
Paul Coogan
Zoning Board Officials:
James C. Calkins, Daniel D. Dupere, John Frank III, Joseph Pereira, Ricky P. Sahady, Eric Kelly (Alternate Member)
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Meeting Type:
Zoning Board
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Meeting Date:
04/18/2024
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Recording Published:
04/19/2024
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Duration:
201 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Bristol County
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Towns:
Fall River
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